City of North Las Vegas: Business License Department Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions (FAQ)
1.	How does the City of North Las Vegas define “business”?
2.	What is a business license?
3.	Who is required to have a business license?
4.	Can I apply by mail or do I have to submit my application in person?
5.	Can I apply for my license over the Internet?
6.	How much does a business license cost?
7.	Are there any restrictions on where I do business?
8.	If I have more than one business or more than one location, do I need multiple licenses?
9.	I conduct business in several cities. Can I get just one license to do business in ALL of them?
10.	What if I want to move my business to another location within the City?
11.	I want to work out of my home in the City of North Las Vegas, do I need a business license?
12.	If I purchase a business, can I use the business license from the previous owner?
13.	How often does a license have to be renewed?
14.	What happens if I don’t pay on time?
15.	Are there special requirements if I sell or prepare food?
16.	If I close or sell the business, do I need to notify the Business License Division?
17.	What if I want to amend or add other aspects to my business?
18.	How do I file a complaint about a business that is operating in the City of North Las Vegas?
19.	Do I need a D.B.A. (Doing Business As) or Fictitious Business Name to file for a business license?
20.	Do I need a sales tax permit?
21.	How do I get a childcare license?
22.	How do I obtain a contractor's license?
23.	I am a state-licensed contractor. Do I need a City of North Las Vegas business license?
24.	I am an independent contractor, paid on a "1099" basis. Do I need a business license?
25.	As a non-profit organization do we need a business license?
26.	What do I do if I want to hold a special event such as a parade, procession or other public event using a public street/right-of-way?
27.	Can I sell or serve alcohol at a special event?
28.	I want to hang my license at a UPS Store or similar location. Can I do that?
29.	I want to leave handbills at homes to advertise my business. Is that covered by the business license?
30.	Who do I need to contact about the signs for my business?
31.	I want to conduct business on a temporary basis. What do I need to do?
32.	Will the City notify me when it is time to renew my license?
33.	I want to pay my business license renewal fees. Can I pay the renewal fees online?
34.	How can I update my contact information and can I do this online?
35.	How do I check the status of my business license application or business license?
36.	Can I check to see if a particular business has a valid City of North Las Vegas Business License?
37.	I want to apply for a business license now. What do I do?
38.	I did not see my question, now what?



1.	How does the City of North Las Vegas define “business”? “Business” means any commercial activity, calling, endeavor, enterprise, occupation, profession, pursuit, service, trade, undertaking, or vocation engaged in, conducted, carried on, advertised, or held out to the public by any person, his agent, or employee for the purpose of gain, benefit, or advantage, either direct or indirect with the principal objective of livelihood or profit through repetitive means. Top
2.	What is a business license? North Las Vegas Municipal Code defines license as “a certificate of approval granted by the director permitting, within the city, a person to engage in the business for which the license is issued.” A license is required when you conduct any business activity within the City of North Las Vegas even if your business is located outside the city limits and you have a business license from the outside jurisdiction. A business license issued by the City of North Las Vegas does not authorize any business activity outside the City of North Las Vegas. The business license is evidence that you have met City of North Las Vegas business license requirements. However, other permits and licenses may be required to operate your business. Top
3.	Who is required to have a business license? Any person who conducts business within the City of North Las Vegas or operates a business based in the City of North Las Vegas must obtain a business license before operations begin. Conducting business in the City of North Las Vegas without a business license may result in enforcement action against the business and its owners, including citation and court action. Top
4.	Can I apply by mail or do I have to submit my application in person? Most applications can be submitted in person or by mail. Those applications that require submission in person are identified in the specific application requirements for the particular license classification. Please note that applications that are submitted in person are given priority over those that are received in the mail. Applications are not accepted via fax or email. Top
5.	Can I apply for my license over the Internet? Not at this time. However, we are diligently working to streamline and improve business license processes and may provide this service in the future. At this time you may Request an Application online. Top
6.	How much does a business license cost? There are several license classifications and the license fee is based upon the classification. In order to determine the correct classification(s) for your business, please Request an Application online or contact the Business License Division at (702) 633-1520. Top
7.	Are there any restrictions on where I do business? Businesses which are based in the City of North Las Vegas are required to obtain approval from the Planning & Zoning Department in order to verify that the location meets zoning requirements. It is strongly recommended that you contact the Planning & Zoning Department before signing any lease or rental agreement. This is to ensure that the location is zoned properly for the intended use and to determine whether a use permit or other type of approval is required prior to conducting your business. Furthermore, due to special requirements for certain types of businesses, it is recommended that you also contact the Building Safety Division for specific requirements related to your proposed business. Top
8.	If I have more than one business or more than one location, do I need multiple licenses? Yes, separate licenses must be obtained for each branch, establishment, or separate location of a business. In addition, separate licenses must be obtained for each and every class and type of business specified in the North Las Vegas Municipal Code even though several classes or types of business may be operated under the same business name and at the same place of business. However, any person conducting several classes or types of business, each of which is required to pay a license fee on the basis of gross revenues, at the same location and under the same business name, is required to apply for and obtain only one license. Top
9.	I conduct business in several cities. Can I get just one license to do business in ALL of them? No. Each jurisdiction has its own business license requirements and fee structure. Check with the appropriate city or county for their rules and regulations. If you will be conducting business within Las Vegas and the surrounding areas, you may need as many as five separate licenses, including one from each of the Cities of Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, and North Las Vegas, as well as one from Clark County. The Clark County license is good only in the unincorporated areas of the county. The Clark County license does not cover any of the incorporated areas located within it. For assistance in determining the appropriate jurisdiction for a particular location, click here. If your business is physically located outside of the City of North Las Vegas, but you will also be doing business in the City, you must obtain a license from the jurisdiction in which you are based prior to applying for a license from the City of North Las Vegas. Top
10.	What if I want to move my business to another location within the City? Prior to beginning business operations at a new location, you must apply for, and receive, approval for the relocation. The Business License Division can provide you with the appropriate application information. In addition, prior to submitting your application, you will need to verify with the Planning & Zoning Department that the new location is zoned properly for the intended use and whether a use permit or other type of approval is required. Top
11.	I want to work out of my home in the City of North Las Vegas, do I need a business license? Yes. First, contact the Business License Division to ensure your business is in compliance with Business License regulations and to request an application packet. Then report to the Planning & Zoning Department to file a Home Occupation application for their review and approval. If your request is allowed, Planning & Zoning staff will approve the Home Occupation application after collecting the appropriate fee, and they will sign your Business License forms indicating that your home has been approved for use as your business location. Finally, submit the completed Business License application packet to the Business License Division for processing. In most cases, the application can be processed by the Business License Division the same day. Top
12.	If I purchase a business, can I use the business license from the previous owner? No. A business license is issued to a particular person or entity at a particular location and may not be used by another. As a new owner, you need to apply for a business license in your name. Top
13.	How often does a license have to be renewed? All business licenses issued by the City of North Las Vegas are renewed semi-annually. The six-month cycles vary based on the classification of the license and are specified in Title 5 of the North Las Vegas Municipal Code. Top
14.	What happens if I don’t pay on time? Penalties will be assessed in accordance with Title 5 of the North Las Vegas Municipal Code for payments not received or postmarked on or before the expiration date of the license. Please note that your business license will be invalid until the license fees and penalties are paid. Licenses for which fees are not paid within 60 days of the expiration date will be revoked for non-payment. Businesses which do not maintain current licenses are subject to enforcement action. Top
15.	Are there special requirements if I sell or prepare food? If you will be selling or preparing food, you will need to apply for a health permit from the Southern Nevada Health District. Necessary permits must be obtained from the Southern Nevada Health District prior to the issuance of City of North Las Vegas business licenses. Top
16.	If I close or sell the business, do I need to notify the Business License Division? Yes, if you choose to close or sell your business, please notify us in writing so that we may cancel your license(s). Be sure to include the business name, address, owner name and signature of owner OR submit the Cancellation Request Form. Top
17.	What if I want to amend or add other aspects to my business? You must notify the Business License Division whenever you change your address, phone number, business activity or ownership. We will be happy to provide you with the necessary paperwork and fee information related to the requested changes. To verify that the location is zoned properly for the intended use, and whether a use permit or other type of approval is required, please contact the City’s Planning & Zoning Department. Top
18.	How do I file a complaint about a business that is operating in the City of North Las Vegas? A complaint about a business that is operating in the City of North Las Vegas must be made in writing using the Business License Complaint Form. Written complaints are kept on file and are reviewed and pursued. However, the City cannot become involved in civil matters. We cannot recover money for you or force someone to do work for you. The business license codes require that proper legal procedures be followed when taking any action against a licensee. To complete and submit a complaint, just click on the above "Business License Complaint Form" hyperlink. In addition, a PDF version is also available under Forms & Documents. Top
19.	Do I need a D.B.A. (Doing Business As) or Fictitious Business Name to file for a business license? If your business name is anything other than your legal given name or exact legal entity name as registered with the Nevada Secretary of State, you will need to file a Fictitious Firm Name Form with the Clark County Clerk's office. It is not required that the form be filed prior to obtaining a business license. However, it is recommended that you verify that the name you wish to use is not already in use prior to licensing. Please note that some banks will not allow you to open a business account without filing the Fictitious Firm Name Form and obtaining a business license. Top
20.	Do I need a sales tax permit? Every business intending to sell tangible goods requires a State of Nevada sales tax permit. To apply for a sales tax permit or for questions regarding sales tax, contact the State of Nevada, Department of Taxation. Every business based in the City of North Las Vegas will be required to provide evidence of compliance with the State of Nevada, Department of Taxation licensing and permit requirements as part of the application process. Top
21.	How do I get a childcare license? An application may be submitted to the City of North Las Vegas to obtain a childcare license. The applicant must complete the application process, including background investigations and obtaining City Council approval, before a license can be issued. Request an Application. Top
22.	How do I obtain a contractor's license? A state license must first be obtained from the Nevada State Contractor's Board. Once the state license has been obtained, an application may be submitted to the City of North Las Vegas. Please note that for businesses based outside the City of North Las Vegas, you must also obtain proper licensing from the jurisdiction in which you are based prior to submitting your application for a City of North Las Vegas business license. For assistance in determining the appropriate jurisdiction for a particular location, click here. Top
23.	I am a state-licensed contractor. Do I need a City of North Las Vegas business license? Yes, if your business is based in the City of North Las Vegas (whether or not you are performing construction work in the City), or based outside of the City of North Las Vegas and conducting business in the City of North Las Vegas, you must obtain a business license from the City. Top
24.	I am an independent contractor, paid on a "1099" basis. Do I need a business license? Yes. With a very few exceptions, if you are not paid as an employee, you are required to have a business license. Please contact the Business License Division for clarification on your particular situation or Request an Application. Top
25.	As a non-profit organization do we need a business license? No. However, non-profit organizations are asked to register with the City of North Las Vegas, Business License Division. While non-profit organizations are not required to file with the Business License Division, they must comply with all City ordinances including Planning & Zoning requirements for the location from which they plan to operate. Proof of non-profit status from the Internal Revenue Service is required to be classified as a non-profit organization. Organizations not holding non-profit status with the Internal Revenue Service will be classified as for-profit businesses for licensing purposes. Request an Application or Registration Packet online, or contact our office if you need further information. Top
26.	What do I do if I want to hold a special event such as a parade, procession or other public event using a public street/right-of-way? Any public event using any public street or right-of-way requires a special event permit, which can be obtained from the Business License Division. Applications must be submitted to the Business License Division no less than 14 days before the planned event. Request an Application. Top
27.	Can I sell or serve alcohol at a special event? The sale or service of alcohol at a special event requires a Special Events Liquor Permit. The permit must be obtained from the Business License Division. Applications for Special Event Liquor Permits must be filed with the director, together with the required fees, at least 45 days prior to the planned event for events held on City property and at least 14 days prior to the event for all other events. Applications for events held on City property are limited to requests for beer, wine and spirit-based products. Applicants are limited to one Special Events Liquor Permit per calendar quarter and the permit may not exceed nine consecutive calendar days. Request an Application. Top
28.	I want to hang my license at a UPS Store or similar location. Can I do that? No. The City of North Las Vegas does not allow license hanging. In order to use a North Las Vegas address for licensing, you must operate the business from that location. Top
29.	I want to leave handbills at homes to advertise my business. Is that covered by the business license? Yes, but you must observe any posted sign restricting access to the property or any verbal request of the homeowner or occupant. Please keep in mind that posting signs, handbills, or flyers on any utility pole, traffic pole, fence, tree, bridge, mailbox or other public structure is prohibited. In addition, placement of handbills or flyers on car windshields is prohibited. If you will be distributing handbills on behalf of another business or party, you will be required to obtain a business license for this activity. Request an Application. Top
30.	Who do I need to contact about the signs for my business? Please check with the Planning & Zoning Department and the Building Safety Division before using or installing any type of sign, flag or banner, including balloons. Permanent and temporary signs require review and approval prior to issuance of permits and installation. Posting signs, flyers or handbills on utility poles, traffic poles, fences, trees, mailboxes or other public structures is prohibited. The placement of handbills or flyers on car windshields is also prohibited. Top
31.	I want to conduct business on a temporary basis. What do I need to do? Applicants that wish to conduct a business on a temporary basis must apply for a Temporary Permit. Applications must be submitted at least 14 days prior to the planned business activity. Subject to required department approvals, Temporary Permits may be granted for up to 14 calendar days but must be for one location. Pumpkin sales lots, haunted houses, and Christmas tree sales lots may be permitted for a period of up to 45 calendar days subject to required department approvals. Request an Application. Top
32.	Will the City notify me when it is time to renew my license? Yes. However, it is your responsibility to renew the business license on time even if the renewal notice is not received. Penalties are assessed for delinquent payments, regardless of whether or not you receive a renewal notice. If you do not receive a notice two weeks prior to the expiration date, contact the Business License Division. Also, please be sure to keep the mailing address on file with the Business License Division current. This will help to avoid delays in the receipt of correspondence sent by the Division. Top
33.	I want to pay my business license renewal fees. Can I pay the renewal fees online? Not at this time. We are working on making this service available in the future. License fees may be submitted through the mail along with the appropriate renewal notice, or they may be paid in person at the Business License Division. All renewal fees must be paid or postmarked on or before the expiration date of the license to avoid penalty fees. Top
34.	How can I update my contact information and can I do this online? You cannot update your contact information online at this time. We are working on making this service available to you in the near future. To update your contact information, please contact the Business License Division. Top
35.	How do I check the status of my business license application or business license? To check the status of your business license application or business license, please contact the Business License Division. Please keep in mind that it does take time to process and approve certain applications. You may also obtain basic information regarding your license using the Verify License Status feature. This feature does not require an account login or password. In the near future, you may track the progress of your application or check the status of your business license online. Top
36.	Can I check to see if a particular business has a valid City of North Las Vegas Business License? Sure! To search for a business license by license number, business name, business address, or business owner, use our Verify License Status feature. Top
37.	I want to apply for a business license now. What do I do? Due to the large number of business license categories and varying license requirements, we are not able to accept a business license application over the internet. However, you may Request an Application online. Top
38	I did not see my question, now what? Please contact the Business License Division, Monday through Thursday, 8:00 AM to 5:45 PM Pacific Time at (702) 633-1520. We will be happy to help you. Top
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